Sudden onset blindness...any help? - YorkieTalk.com Forums

Israel · 03-13-2006, 02:18 PM

Hello,
I know that vets are usually up on everything, but I am wondering if someone out there may be able to help with a missing puzzle piece. Our little girl, Chelsey, about 4 lbs, and not yet 3 years old had an episode of hypersalivating/disorientation on Saturday (walking along wall, trying to climb up on her crate instead of using steps) very restless night. On Sunday she seemed to be fine...ate well, whole bit, no more staggering or disorientation. Today, I went to work and wife called saying she was drooling excessively and had her at the vet. It was there she was told they had discovered she was completely blind. Took her immediately to another Vet (eye specialist) and had her checked out...he says everything intraocular looks ok, but that something either with the optic nerve or brain must therefore be the problem.
All her bloodwork was normal, temp ok, liver enzymes and other things checked out. The eye spec said it could be a tumor, could be encephalitis, autoimmune or could be a few other things...and we have her on steroids now and antibiotic in the hope of reducing inflammation (Steroid), if that is the problem...and if encephalitis (antibiotic). I suppose she may have been sightless on Saturday (trying to use her crate as steps...walking near the very edge of the bed...but we just didn't know that was what was going on)...and seemed to be fine again on Sunday...none of these symptoms...only to have a recurrence today, with no discernable return of sight yet, now that we know how to check... has anyone had a similar experience? Hypersalivation (the first vet said it was due to stress, but the eye specialist who gave her a shot of atropine said no)., concurrent with loss of sight...then a period of seeming recovery with another onset? I appreciate you all, and sympathize with all of you that are either going through mishaps with your sweeties or have suffered through them already. Thanks for your time.

eensor · 03-13-2006, 02:41 PM

I don't know anything about this. Is there a vet school nearby? Their clinics are usually quite state of the art. Good luck! Poor baby!

Baby Blessing · 03-13-2006, 02:45 PM

Dear Israel and Mrs, We are so sorry to hear what is going on with Chelsey, prayers that she will be ok, just keep giving her your TLC that is the best of best of medicines. Please keep us posted on how she is doing. My parents poodle went blind and Pepi did fine as far as getting about in the home, and he lived a long life of eighteen years. Again praying that this is only temporary and that her sight loss will be regained real soon.
Sincerely, Patti and Jack ~~Baby Blessing~~

Shanatink · 03-13-2006, 03:55 PM

I just want to say I am so sorry for your little girl and I hope you find your answers.

GeorgiesMomma · 03-13-2006, 04:29 PM

Just wanted to say that I am sorry your baby is going through this and you all will be in my prayers.

barbg402 · 03-13-2006, 05:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Israel

Hello,
I know that vets are usually up on everything, but I am wondering if someone out there may be able to help with a missing puzzle piece. Our little girl, Chelsey, about 4 lbs, and not yet 3 years old had an episode of hypersalivating/disorientation on Saturday (walking along wall, trying to climb up on her crate instead of using steps) very restless night. On Sunday she seemed to be fine...ate well, whole bit, no more staggering or disorientation. Today, I went to work and wife called saying she was drooling excessively and had her at the vet. It was there she was told they had discovered she was completely blind. Took her immediately to another Vet (eye specialist) and had her checked out...he says everything intraocular looks ok, but that something either with the optic nerve or brain must therefore be the problem.
All her bloodwork was normal, temp ok, liver enzymes and other things checked out. The eye spec said it could be a tumor, could be encephalitis, autoimmune or could be a few other things...and we have her on steroids now and antibiotic in the hope of reducing inflammation (Steroid), if that is the problem...and if encephalitis (antibiotic). I suppose she may have been sightless on Saturday (trying to use her crate as steps...walking near the very edge of the bed...but we just didn't know that was what was going on)...and seemed to be fine again on Sunday...none of these symptoms...only to have a recurrence today, with no discernable return of sight yet, now that we know how to check... has anyone had a similar experience? Hypersalivation (the first vet said it was due to stress, but the eye specialist who gave her a shot of atropine said no)., concurrent with loss of sight...then a period of seeming recovery with another onset? I appreciate you all, and sympathize with all of you that are either going through mishaps with your sweeties or have suffered through them already. Thanks for your time.

You may want to make a telephone call to Texas A&M Vet School. I hear they are wonderful. They do heart surgeries and are highly successful. Maybe one of the doctors can guide you. Texas A&M is located in College Station Texas. Good luck, hope this condition can be reversed. Keep us informed.

Israel · 03-13-2006, 05:58 PM

It's amazing how far sympathy goes to easing our woes...your concern is touching and genuine...today, when my wife called, and I asked my boss if I could leave to be with her at the vets, I blubberred a bit...a little "funny" that an almost 200 lb man of 54 years could be reduced to tears by concern for 4 lbs of furry face licking ear biting sweetness. I am reminded of that poem made a bit more famous by the movie "GI Jane", about wild things feeling no self pity, how a sparrow can fall frozen from a limb without ever having felt sorry for itself...and that is part of the poignancy of it....to see her gamely carrying on as best she can, and really doing no too badly at all considering...knowing I might take to my bed for years if it was me...there's so much God can teach us about simply living each day as it comes without focusing on loss. I know I am being sappy and loquacious, maybe just being reminded of the frailty and preciousness of life, and the sorrows we often unknowingly embrace when we choose to love...but who would have it any other way? Thank you all again...

JeanieK · 03-13-2006, 06:09 PM

I am so sorry for your little one. i hope you find the answers that you need. I thouroughly understand your feelings. My husband gets so emotional too. but you are right, they do not feel sorry for themselves, and they learn to adapt. Just a suggestion, if she does not regain her sight. Is to get another dog to lead her around. Animals do take care of each other. Wish you the best of luck.

Baby Blessing · 03-13-2006, 08:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Israel

knowing I might take to my bed for years if it was me...there's so much God can teach us about simply living each day as it comes without focusing on loss. I know I am being sappy and loquacious, maybe just being reminded of the frailty and preciousness of life, and the sorrows we often unknowingly embrace when we choose to love...but who would have it any other way? Thank you all again...

Israel what a fine thing to say, I am continually reminding myself and my hubby of what you just said, yes the sorrows can be so hard to embrace when we choose to love but with that love comes such an abundance of happiness. As my hubby struggles with Parkinsons I continually remind him each day to keep moving and pushing on, with God's help he can do it. I have to continually remind him not to focus on his PD he sometimes calls me his drill Sgt. his doctor says thats ok you keep on being his drill Sgt. that is what is keeping him moving. We are praying for you and the Mrs. and Chelsey, just keep looking to God for strength in this life to endure the unknowns and hardships. We shall be looking for your future postings to update us on Chelsey. Sincerely from both of us, Patti and Jack

yorkiepip · 03-14-2006, 05:31 AM

I'm sorry to hear you and your baby are going thru this.
Bigs hugs ((((())))) and thoughts being sent your way

TLC · 03-14-2006, 11:26 AM

Please keep us posted. I will be saying a pray for your baby!

whispersmom2 · 03-14-2006, 01:31 PM

You and your loved ones are going thru such a rough time especially because you love your baby so much. I said in a post on another thread that God really pays attention to the prayers of YT members- He knows we really do mean it when we pray for one of His creatures.
The vet school is a wonderful place-if you ever want to read up on their great works just read SmallPawsRescue for Bichons. They actually do perform miracles and it sounds as if your baby needs one.
BTW, my hubby is a retired minister, 72 y.o. and stand up and do a funeral withoout a tear. BUT, let one of our babies get sick, and he is all ablubber. So, you big ole softies are just what our Yorkie babies need.

red98vett · 03-14-2006, 02:06 PM

That's so sad to read...I've seen the symptoms discussed somewhere but am not sure and will try to find any info for you if I can...I just wanted to say how sorry I am and maybe this was something that just happened and may be nothing serious ? I hope you can find answers and maybe there will be someone who sees this thread that can help you more.....All the best to you and GOOD LUCK with your little sweetie....

SnowWa · 03-14-2006, 09:29 PM

Israel - Please keep in touch and let us know how your little pup is doing.

It is truly heartbreaking and touching. You described so well what we all know - that our little dogs can suffer and endure, with no complaining whatsoever, things that would put the most brave among us to bed.

Again - please get back to us and let us know what you learn...

Carol Jean

Israel · 03-15-2006, 03:29 PM

Firstly, I would like to say how your prayers and comments have really touched my heart...and as posted I also believe God hears the prayers that go up whenever we suffer with our little ones. Yesterday my wife called and said...I believe she is seeing again...she is responding to hand movements, jumping on and off furniture at a full bound when I come home (so I can sit and "love her up")...things she was not doing, and generally, acting very much like her old self...at this point we do not know what caused the blindness, but are confident that the eye specialists tests at the time were accurate. Obviously, we will continue to monitor her very closely, because as we have learned in the meantime, sometimes dogs go blind without their owners even knowing, they are so capable using other senses...but generally, this would be a slower onset type of situation...Today she is very much her "old self" barking at me to pick her up into my lap as I sit at this computer, tail up in a healthy fashion as she walks, as we have often noted...when her tail is down there is sometimes something wrong. We are continuing the steroids and the antibiotics and have a repeat visit to the vet set for next week...I have seen other posts of folks going through the tests and trials of owning such vulnerable bundles of joy and pray for happy resolutions to their situations also. I really do appreciate you all.
Blessings.

03-13-2006, 02:18 PM	#1
Israel Yorkie Yakker Join Date: Apr 2005 Posts: 34	Sudden onset blindness...any help? Hello, I know that vets are usually up on everything, but I am wondering if someone out there may be able to help with a missing puzzle piece. Our little girl, Chelsey, about 4 lbs, and not yet 3 years old had an episode of hypersalivating/disorientation on Saturday (walking along wall, trying to climb up on her crate instead of using steps) very restless night. On Sunday she seemed to be fine...ate well, whole bit, no more staggering or disorientation. Today, I went to work and wife called saying she was drooling excessively and had her at the vet. It was there she was told they had discovered she was completely blind. Took her immediately to another Vet (eye specialist) and had her checked out...he says everything intraocular looks ok, but that something either with the optic nerve or brain must therefore be the problem. All her bloodwork was normal, temp ok, liver enzymes and other things checked out. The eye spec said it could be a tumor, could be encephalitis, autoimmune or could be a few other things...and we have her on steroids now and antibiotic in the hope of reducing inflammation (Steroid), if that is the problem...and if encephalitis (antibiotic). I suppose she may have been sightless on Saturday (trying to use her crate as steps...walking near the very edge of the bed...but we just didn't know that was what was going on)...and seemed to be fine again on Sunday...none of these symptoms...only to have a recurrence today, with no discernable return of sight yet, now that we know how to check... has anyone had a similar experience? Hypersalivation (the first vet said it was due to stress, but the eye specialist who gave her a shot of atropine said no)., concurrent with loss of sight...then a period of seeming recovery with another onset? I appreciate you all, and sympathize with all of you that are either going through mishaps with your sweeties or have suffered through them already. Thanks for your time.

03-13-2006, 03:55 PM	#4
Shanatink Mommy to 3 Princesses Donating Member Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: DFW Texas Posts: 11,030	I just want to say I am so sorry for your little girl and I hope you find your answers. __________________ Custom Dog Clothing Boutique www.TinkerbellsCloset.com

03-13-2006, 04:29 PM	#5
GeorgiesMomma I love TBCG! Donating Member Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: MD Posts: 7,227	Just wanted to say that I am sorry your baby is going through this and you all will be in my prayers. __________________ Morgan Mommy toGeorgie boy & Isaiah RIP sweet Coco 10/12/99-8/1/12 Read About Georgie's Experience with Atlantoaxial Instability (AAI) Here!

03-13-2006, 05:58 PM	#7
Israel Yorkie Yakker Join Date: Apr 2005 Posts: 34	Thank you all... It's amazing how far sympathy goes to easing our woes...your concern is touching and genuine...today, when my wife called, and I asked my boss if I could leave to be with her at the vets, I blubberred a bit...a little "funny" that an almost 200 lb man of 54 years could be reduced to tears by concern for 4 lbs of furry face licking ear biting sweetness. I am reminded of that poem made a bit more famous by the movie "GI Jane", about wild things feeling no self pity, how a sparrow can fall frozen from a limb without ever having felt sorry for itself...and that is part of the poignancy of it....to see her gamely carrying on as best she can, and really doing no too badly at all considering...knowing I might take to my bed for years if it was me...there's so much God can teach us about simply living each day as it comes without focusing on loss. I know I am being sappy and loquacious, maybe just being reminded of the frailty and preciousness of life, and the sorrows we often unknowingly embrace when we choose to love...but who would have it any other way? Thank you all again...

03-14-2006, 05:31 AM	#10
yorkiepip Donating YT 1000 Club Member Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Brittany France Posts: 2,420	I'm sorry to hear you and your baby are going thru this. Bigs hugs ((((())))) and thoughts being sent your way __________________ Anne, Pippa, Jake Woody

03-13-2006, 02:41 PM	#2
eensor YT 2000 Club Member Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: Effingham, Illinois Posts: 2,535	I don't know anything about this. Is there a vet school nearby? Their clinics are usually quite state of the art. Good luck! Poor baby!

03-13-2006, 02:45 PM	#3
Baby Blessing Our Blessings R Many Donating Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: In the shelter of God's Loving Care. Posts: 3,095 Blog Entries: 1	Dear Israel and Mrs, We are so sorry to hear what is going on with Chelsey, prayers that she will be ok, just keep giving her your TLC that is the best of best of medicines. Please keep us posted on how she is doing. My parents poodle went blind and Pepi did fine as far as getting about in the home, and he lived a long life of eighteen years. Again praying that this is only temporary and that her sight loss will be regained real soon. Sincerely, Patti and Jack ~~Baby Blessing~~

03-13-2006, 06:09 PM	#8
JeanieK Donating YT 12K Club Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Council Bluffs Iowa Posts: 12,552	I am so sorry for your little one. i hope you find the answers that you need. I thouroughly understand your feelings. My husband gets so emotional too. but you are right, they do not feel sorry for themselves, and they learn to adapt. Just a suggestion, if she does not regain her sight. Is to get another dog to lead her around. Animals do take care of each other. Wish you the best of luck.

03-14-2006, 11:26 AM	#11
TLC Slave to My Rug-Rats Donating Member Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Long Island Posts: 7,247	Please keep us posted. I will be saying a pray for your baby! __________________ Adopt Donate Foster www.yorkie911rescue.com

03-14-2006, 01:31 PM	#12
whispersmom2 Inactive Account Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: MD Posts: 2,985	You and your loved ones are going thru such a rough time especially because you love your baby so much. I said in a post on another thread that God really pays attention to the prayers of YT members- He knows we really do mean it when we pray for one of His creatures. The vet school is a wonderful place-if you ever want to read up on their great works just read SmallPawsRescue for Bichons. They actually do perform miracles and it sounds as if your baby needs one. BTW, my hubby is a retired minister, 72 y.o. and stand up and do a funeral withoout a tear. BUT, let one of our babies get sick, and he is all ablubber. So, you big ole softies are just what our Yorkie babies need.

03-14-2006, 02:06 PM	#13
red98vett Yorkie Kisses are the Best! Donating Member Join Date: Jul 2004 Location: Houston TX Posts: 33,590 Blog Entries: 1	That's so sad to read...I've seen the symptoms discussed somewhere but am not sure and will try to find any info for you if I can...I just wanted to say how sorry I am and maybe this was something that just happened and may be nothing serious ? I hope you can find answers and maybe there will be someone who sees this thread that can help you more.....All the best to you and GOOD LUCK with your little sweetie.... __________________ Villette, Chanel & Cheri www.DesignsByVillette.net Custom Address Labels and Note Cards using YOUR Photos! Just Click HERE!

03-14-2006, 09:29 PM	#14
SnowWa YT 2000 Club Member Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: USA Posts: 2,992	Israel - Please keep in touch and let us know how your little pup is doing. It is truly heartbreaking and touching. You described so well what we all know - that our little dogs can suffer and endure, with no complaining whatsoever, things that would put the most brave among us to bed. Again - please get back to us and let us know what you learn... Carol Jean __________________ http://tinypic.com/ipxhmb.jpg A Yorkie is worth a thousand words.

03-15-2006, 03:29 PM	#15
Israel Yorkie Yakker Join Date: Apr 2005 Posts: 34	Good News! Firstly, I would like to say how your prayers and comments have really touched my heart...and as posted I also believe God hears the prayers that go up whenever we suffer with our little ones. Yesterday my wife called and said...I believe she is seeing again...she is responding to hand movements, jumping on and off furniture at a full bound when I come home (so I can sit and "love her up")...things she was not doing, and generally, acting very much like her old self...at this point we do not know what caused the blindness, but are confident that the eye specialists tests at the time were accurate. Obviously, we will continue to monitor her very closely, because as we have learned in the meantime, sometimes dogs go blind without their owners even knowing, they are so capable using other senses...but generally, this would be a slower onset type of situation...Today she is very much her "old self" barking at me to pick her up into my lap as I sit at this computer, tail up in a healthy fashion as she walks, as we have often noted...when her tail is down there is sometimes something wrong. We are continuing the steroids and the antibiotics and have a repeat visit to the vet set for next week...I have seen other posts of folks going through the tests and trials of owning such vulnerable bundles of joy and pray for happy resolutions to their situations also. I really do appreciate you all. Blessings.